Bertra Beach Walk

Nothing beats a good beach walk to clear the head, stretch the legs, and inspire the soul. And the Bertra Beach walk, 12 km outside of Westport along the South Shore of Clew Bay, provides just the terrain. Beltra Beach is a pleasant and easy walk with magnificent views, and opportunities for viewing wildlife.

Bertra Beach is an EC designated Blue Flag Beach, due to its clean and fresh waters and surrounding pristine landscape. Along Beltra's shores can be found numerous species of seabirds, including sky larks, who take full advantage of Beltra's impressive dune complex, a fragile ecosystem habitat, continually being eroded away by the sea. On a calm day, it is not uncommon to spot a few seals basking in the sunshine.

Beltra Beach Walk is best done at mid or low tide to get the full benefit of the sandy beach. From the car park descend the steps or rocks down onto the beach. The walking route follows the coastline right around the spit. Along the way many islands are clearly visible, including Clare Island�s distinctive hump shape, and Achill Island further to the North. And of course there are numerous smaller islands that famously scattered along Clew Bay, You cannot help but be inspired by the imposing presence of Croagh Patrick or �The Reek� as it is known locally. Murrisk village is also plainly visible.

If You Go: Beltra Beach can be easily found by driving the R335 (Louisburgh Road) from Westport along the coast. Just over a kilometre past Murrisk, and the car park for the Croagh Patrick and the famine memorial, you'll see a signpost for Bertra Beach. Turn right and follow the winding road to the car park.